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LD 525

An Act To Strengthen Maine Citizens' Second Amendment Rights By Allowing The Discharge Of Firearms On Private Property That Is Within 500 Feet Of School Property In Certain Circumstances

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donald Ardell and 9 co-sponsors

Maine bill would allow firearm discharge on private property within 500 feet of schools under certain conditions; failed House passage 70-69 on June 16, 2025.

Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
#firearms #possession #schoolproperty
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LD 525

Legislative bill overview

LD 525 would permit firearm discharge on private property located within 500 feet of school property under specified circumstances, modifying Maine's existing restrictions on shooting near schools. The bill narrowly failed passage in the House on June 16, 2025, with the majority voting against it (70-69).

Why is this important

This legislation directly addresses the intersection of Second Amendment rights and school safety—two areas where Maine citizens hold strongly divergent views. The outcome affects both gun owners' property rights and the security perimeter around educational facilities where children gather.

Potential points of contention

  • School safety vs. property rights: Opponents argue that allowing gunfire within 500 feet of schools creates unnecessary safety risks during operational hours; supporters contend that responsible private property owners should have shooting rights on their own land regardless of proximity.
  • Enforcement and definition ambiguity: The phrase "in certain circumstances" lacks specificity in the bill summary, raising questions about what conditions would actually permit discharge and how enforcement would distinguish lawful from unlawful shooting.
  • Liability and accident risk: Concerns exist about stray bullets, ricochets, or accidents affecting school grounds, students, or staff; proponents argue existing property boundaries and private ownership should eliminate this concern.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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